Now or never: up to -50% | Until March 8 ⏳
Very often players choose their stick based on a professional player, design, or brand preference. But the right hockey stick should primarily match the player's height, weight and style of play.
If the length or flex is wrong, even an expensive stick may feel uncomfortable and your shot will lose power.
In this guide we explain how to choose a hockey stick step by step – from the basic parameters to the differences between brands.
The length of the hockey stick is one of the most important parameters. If the stick is too long or too short, it will significantly affect puck control and shooting stability.
A common rule says that without skates the stick should reach somewhere between your chin and your nose. With skates on, the stick usually reaches around the bottom of the chin.
However, playing style also plays an important role. Defensemen often prefer slightly longer sticks because they provide better reach when defending. Forwards often choose shorter sticks because they allow faster puck handling and better control in tight spaces.
It is also important to know that cutting a stick shorter increases its flex. That’s why choosing the correct length from the start is always recommended.
👉 Browse the current selection of hockey sticks in stock
Flex indicates the stiffness of the stick shaft. The lower the number, the softer the stick and the easier it bends during a shot. Higher numbers indicate a stiffer stick that requires more strength.
A simple rule suggests that the flex should be approximately half of the player’s weight in pounds. For example, a player weighing around 176 lbs (80 kg) usually uses a stick with flex around 85.
A very common mistake is choosing a stick that is too stiff. In that case, the player cannot properly load the shaft and the shot loses energy.
Softer sticks are especially beneficial for younger players and technical forwards who often take wrist shots.
👉 If you want to learn more, read our detailed guide How to Choose the Right Hockey Stick Flex
The blade curve affects puck control and shooting style. Some curves are better for quick wrist shots, while others support powerful slap shots.
A moderate curve is usually the most versatile option and works well for most players. More aggressive curves can help lift the puck more easily and release shots faster.
The key is to choose a curve that matches your playing style rather than simply copying a professional player.
Kick point refers to the area of the stick where it bends the most when shooting. This bending helps transfer energy into the puck and significantly affects the type of shot the stick is best suited for.
Modern hockey sticks typically use three types of kick points: low kick, mid kick and hybrid kick.
Each type works best for a slightly different playing style.
Low kick sticks bend closer to the blade. This allows the shot to be released extremely quickly, which is why these sticks are popular among forwards.
Typical characteristics:
Typical stick lines:
Best suited for:
Mid kick sticks bend closer to the center of the shaft. This design generates more power for strong shots.
Because of that, it is popular among defensemen or players who frequently shoot from longer distances.
Typical characteristics:
Typical stick lines:
Best suited for:
Hybrid kick sticks combine the characteristics of low and mid kick points. They react depending on how the stick is loaded and provide a balance between quick release and power.
Typical characteristics:
Typical stick lines:
Best suited for:
Modern hockey sticks are made primarily from composite materials with a high percentage of carbon fiber. This makes them lightweight while maintaining high durability.
High-end models are usually lighter and transfer energy more efficiently during shots. However, this does not necessarily mean that the most expensive stick is always the best choice.
For many recreational players, choosing the correct flex and length is far more important than buying the most expensive model.
Each brand has its own philosophy regarding balance, feel and stick construction.
Below is a simplified overview of some of the most well-known manufacturers.
| Brand | Characteristics | Typical Stick Lines | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCM | quick release, modern technologies | JetSpeed, Ribcor, Tacks | technical players |
| Bauer | stability and puck feel | Vapor, Nexus | wide range of players |
| Sherwood | strong price/performance ratio | Rekker, Code | wide range of players |
| Winnwell | durable and affordable | Q-Series, AMP | beginners and recreational players |
One of the most common mistakes is choosing a stick based on appearance or a professional player’s preference. Every player has different strength, height and playing style.
Another typical mistake is selecting a stick that is too stiff, which prevents proper shaft loading.
Among younger players we also frequently see sticks that are simply too long.
Yes, but cutting a stick will increase its stiffness (flex).
Low kick sticks are better for quick wrist shots. Mid kick sticks provide more power for slap shots.
For recreational players it usually lasts one to two seasons depending on usage.
If you are unsure which hockey stick to choose, our specialists will be happy to help.
📞Phone: +420 733 132 833
📧E-mail: info@hejduksport.cz
Customer support hours: Mon–Fri 8:00–16:00
